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Council advances $45,000 storm siren purchase to May 4 vote, citing obsolete system
Summary
City staff proposed a $45,000 purchase to replace the city's 2012 storm siren system, citing obsolete firmware and soon-unavailable replacement parts; Fire Chief Mike Moffitt said the new system could be operational in 30–60 days and controllable from his phone. The item was moved to the May 4 voting session.
City staff told the Council that the city's outdoor warning system, installed in 2012, relies on unsupported Windows 10 software and semiconductor components that are becoming obsolete, making repairs increasingly difficult.
Assistant City Manager Lori J. Phelps said she was requesting a budget amendment to increase the Capital Non-Department Equipment line by $45,000 to fund a new siren; staff packet materials reportedly included proposed cuts from other capital budgets to cover the amount. Fire Chief Mike Moffitt told the Council the current siren system is outdated and “it is imperative it be replaced.” He said the new console would be installed at the Police Station, “could be up and running in 30 - 60 days,” could be triggered from his phone, and would be tied into Three Rivers College and the National Weather Service to automate alerts.
The Council moved the item to the May 4 voting session for formal action and appropriation. If approved, procurement and installation steps would follow city purchasing rules and any interagency coordination required for integration with the National Weather Service and regional partners.
Next steps: the Council will consider the FY 2026 budget amendment and the $45,000 appropriation at its May 4 meeting.
